Difference of Divorce, Annulment, and Dissolution of Marriage

You may have heard different terms used when referring to the legal end of a marriage. Knowing the differences in these terms will help you make the right decision about bringing your marriage to its end.

 

Divorce or Dissolution of Marriage

 

The terms divorce and dissolution of marriage can be interchanged because they mean the same thing. When speaking with an OKC divorce attorney, they will most likely use either term.

Divorce is the most common public term used to describe the end of a marriage. The formal definition of divorce means to “disassociate or separate permanently from someone or something.” This is why most people use the term to describe the formal ending of a marriage.

Dissolution of Marriage is the official legal term for this action. Dissolution means that it is dissolving the marriage contract. Once the dissolution is approved, the marriage has been ended.

 

What Is Annulment?

 

There are occasions where an annulment may be a better option than a divorce. Your OKC divorce attorney will tell you if an annulment is a better option based on your situation.

By definition, an annulment is a legal proceeding that states that the original marriage never took place. Because the marriage was not official, there is no reason for a divorce.

Annulments can happen for many reasons but are most commonly associated with underage elopements and spur-of-the-moment marriages often associated with intoxication.

Annulments may also be granted if the original marriage was made under fraudulent circumstances if either of the persons never intended to enter into a marriage but were coerced, or in some cases, for religious reasons.

Speaking with an OKC divorce attorney to know which type of legal action is the best way to end your marriage. They will be able to provide you with the most relevant information based on the facts of your case.